HC Deb 04 March 1959 vol 601 c40W
35. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Postmaster-General why he plans to cut the capital allocation for the Post Office for the year 1959–60; by how much he proposes to reduce it; and to what extent he has taken into account, or will take into account, the bearing of this cut on the convenience of subscribers, on the utility of the service, and on unemployment in Great Britain.

38. Mr. P. Morris

asked the Postmaster-General why he expects to spend £4 million less in 1959–60 than in 1958–59 for telephone development, in view of the need for improved facilities and work for the number of unemployed.

Mr. K. Thompson

Post Office investment was originally fixed at £95 million for 1958–59 and £90 million for 1959–60. The figures have now been raised to £98 million and £94½ million respectively. In deciding the total amount of public investment, and how it should be allocated, the Government have not overlooked the considerations mentioned in the hon. Members' Questions.